PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — It is a known issue that the discharged Medical Referral patients of SZV, currently in the Dominican Republic are now faced with prolonged stays in the country due to the cancellations of PAWA airline flights. SZV recognizes the impact of this and our team has since been working actively towards alternatives for its patients currently affected. At the moment a total of 15 persons (patients and companions combined) are pending travel arrangements to return to St. Maarten.
It is a very undesirable situation for all. Together with various parties and stakeholders we are seeking the best and safest means of transport back home for our patients. The process itself requires the necessary time and collaborations to ensure that all legal, compliance and safety regulations are met.
“One of our options is to charter a plane, we are currently investigating this option to see if it is a viable short-term solution. It is important to share that for this option, we are reliant on the respective authorities, landing rights, suitable aircrafts etc. Our team has been working tirelessly on this situation and we are thankful for the support of our partners thus far. Our discharged patients need to return home to continue their recuperations and such. We know that families need to be reunited and we ask our patients to hold on tight as we continue to work on solutions.” – Mr. Glen A. Carty, Director SZV
Recent flight disruptions impacting the medical travel of SZV patients is that of InselAir. So far, the biggest impact of this has been prolonged delays and last minute flight changes. SZV advises all patients travelling with InselAir to continuously monitor flight change announcements by the airline. Changes in flight plans occur within hours’ notice, SZV asks patients to pay extra attention to this.
Patients abroad seeking to contact SZV with general inquires can do so via www.szv.sx, the Facebook page, info@szv.sx or by calling +1721-546-6782.
